On June 16, a Good Samaritan witnessed a tragic scene: a distressed dog was stuck in the center of a canal, with her only source of support being a submerged shopping cart that she was clinging to.
With no time to spare, the Phoenix Fire Department hurried to the location, joined by Hunter Stribling, an Emergency Animal Medical Technician from the Arizona Humane Society. Together, they devised a strategy to use a ladder and AHS rescue equipment to reach her.
In a press release, AHS stated that the 10-year-old dog, now named Dorothea, “would have little to no chance of survival” if they had not rescued her in time. They also noted that she was “scared but open to receiving help,” but was “all tail wags” once brought to shore, clearly thankful for her rescuers. It remains unclear how Dorothea ended up in that canal or where she came from.
Dorothea underwent a medical evaluation by AHS veterinarians: she was found to be dehydrated, hungry, and infested with ticks, but fortunately, she only sustained minor injuries. She also needed dental work to remove some fractured teeth, and AHS commented that she was “otherwise great health given the circumstances.”
Now safe and receiving the care and affection she requires, the Arizona Humane Society reported that Dorothea’s personality has started to flourish.
“Throughout her month of treatment at the shelter (including a spa day with AHS’ groomer), Dorothea was discovered to be a sweet, loving girl who appreciated cuddles and attention from humans,” the humane society stated in a press release.
Now, Dorothea’s story has a joyful conclusion: the rescue announced that she has been adopted and is currently enjoying her best life with a new family in Youngtown, Arizona. She will undoubtedly be relishing her senior years in peace and happiness in her new forever home.
Dorothea transformed from being trapped in a canal with “no chance of survival” to finding a warm forever home — what an amazing story ❤️ A heartfelt thank you to everyone who saved her and provided her with this lovely second chance.
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